‘Henderson gives Liverpool a better chance of winning trophies’

Liverpool have “a far better chance” of winning trophies with club captain Jordan Henderson in the side, says Graeme Souness.

Injuries have restricted the Reds captain of late, but his presence and value to the cause at Anfield has been recognised by a club legend

Liverpool have “a far better chance” of winning trophies with club captain Jordan Henderson in the side, says Graeme Souness.

The Reds saw their skipper ruled out with a foot problem in February, forcing him to sit out the remainder of the 2016-17 campaign.

They were able to secure a top-four finish in his absence, but the club’s wait for silverware goes on.

Souness believes Henderson will have a key role to play in that quest once back to full fitness, with the England international a vital cog whose value to the cause can often go unnoticed.

He told Liverpool’s official website: “In the playing sense they’ve missed him greatly.

“You’re not always bossing the game – doesn’t matter what team you are, you’re not always in charge of the game – and he’s really good at making [opponents] go into areas and make passes they don’t want to.

“As well as that, I think he’s improved with his own technique – he can open the play up both short and long now, and he’s a major influence.

“Arguably, he might have been the first on the teamsheet when he was firing on all cylinders.”

Former Reds skipper Souness added: “Being the captain of a club like Liverpool is an enormous responsibility; you’re forever being compared to people who have gone before you.

“He looks to be a really steady character, which will stand him in good stead when things don’t go well.

“We just have to start winning trophies now and, with him back, it gives us a far better chance.”

Henderson was restricted to just 24 Premier League appearances in 2016-17, having only made 17 the season before.

He is, however, a key part of Jurgen Klopp’s plans and is tied to a contract which is due to run until 2020.